Our Blog

Last week I mentioned an important resource, the AAO Guide for Parents.  It discusses so many detailed aspects of orthodontic treatment and asks all the right questions.

This week and in coming weeks, I'm going to highlight specific sections from this guide.  Today I'd like to direct your attention to the topic of "Understanding Early Treatment."  Early orthodontic treatment is something that we get TONS of questions about.  Many parents remember having braces around age 11 or 12, and when the dentist recommends a visit to the orthodontist around age 7 or 8, their first thought is, "Isn't this a little early?"

The answer?  In some cases, yes.  However, in other cases, some level of orthodontic intervention at this age may reduce the risk of requiring more invasive treatment later and may facilitate a more successful result by influencing growth and development at just the right time.

If you have questions about early treatment, check out this amazing resource!

Understanding Early Check-Ups

Today on the blog, I'd like to introduce you to an amazing resource provided specifically for parents on the American Association of Orthodontists website.  This guide covers numerous topics - everything from helping you understand the why and how of braces to tips while you or your child are wearing them.

If you'd like to get some unbiased information on how to choose an orthodontist or learn what a typical first visit should be like, check out this fantastic resource!  In coming weeks, I plan to feature more specific content from this page.  In the meantime, please begin browsing whatever speaks to you!

Here it is, the AAO Parents' Guide to Orthodontic Treatment!

As with many things in life (going back to school, having a baby, etc.), lots of people feel like it's never the right time to get braces.  Well, my friends, good news!  Treatment with braces has gotten easier and less invasive than ever.  And with so many esthetic options available, you might say there's really no wrong time to begin!  However, today I'd like to make a case that summertime is the perfect time to get started!  Why?

1. For kids, school is out and schedules are more flexible than ever! Having braces or clear aligners requires a few appointments.  Why not try to accomplish these appointments during the summer when the calendar is less full of other obligations?
2. It's a perfect opportunity to take your time learning a new hygiene routine.  Learning to brush and floss effectively with braces take a little bit more time, and you should be patient with yourself and make an effort to master the new system.  A couple extra hours of daylight before bedtime make this process way more tolerable!
3. You can show off the beginnings of your new smile by the time school's back in session!  Braces start to work very quickly.  If you're starting right now, you'll already be able to see some exciting changes in your teeth by the fall.  And you can enter the school year with a "New Year, New You" attitude!

We're here all summer!  Give us a call, and we'll help you get started!

Within the past few years, we've observed an exciting trend - the increasing adoption of WaterPik water flossers for improved hygiene with braces!  Last week we had the privilege of having some in-person education on this product right in our own office.

An experienced dental hygienist who has been working with WaterPik and their products for years came to visit us and educate us on the effectiveness of this product as well as best practices for use.

We're well aware that hygiene while wearing braces, especially in children and teenagers, can be a challenge.  It can become a point of frustration for parents, and poor hygiene can often lead to irreversible damage in the form of white spots and even cavities.  For this reason, we hope to offer our patients all the help we can!

Using a WaterPik can remove over 99% of plaque from difficult-to-reach surfaces, and most patients seem to find it more convenient and less time-consuming than flossing.  In addition, mastering the technique is often easier, and patients can become more competent at completing their hygiene routine with the WaterPik.

Going forward, we are pleased to be able to offer our patients discounted prices on WaterPik water flossers if they'd like to add this to their hygiene routine.  We believe it could make the difference between an acceptable result and an outstanding one!  Please contact us for more information - we look forward to helping you enjoy the experience of achieving a beautiful smile!